Budgeting a 60×80 Sloped Backyard Renovation in Minneapolis

You have a 60×80 ft north-facing backyard sloping up from the house. Full sun, dead grass, chain-link fence, no trees. Want privacy, seating area, shade. Need a cost reality check.

Cost Drivers (In Order)

1. DIY % vs. subcontracted %
2. Site prep: grading, drainage, soil amendment
3. Hardscape: walls, patios, structures
4. Plant size & type (liners vs. specimens)
5. Accessories: mulch, rock, irrigation, lighting

Ballpark Ranges

• $20k–40k: DIY heavy, modest plants, basic patio, privacy shrubs, seed/sod.
• $60k–100k: Pro hardscape, specimen trees, irrigation, lighting, designer involvement.
• $150k+: Pools, outdoor kitchen, custom structures, mature specimens.

Start With a Site Plan

Scaled drawing: property lines, house, utilities, setbacks, slopes, sun angles, wind, drainage, neighbor sightlines. Graph paper or free SketchUp.

Then: Lifestyle List → Feature List → Contractor Quotes → Plant Research

Don't design at the nursery. Design at the desk.

Pro Hack: Become a "Contractor"

File a DBA ($50–100), open a business bank account. Buy wholesale at nursery yards, stone yards, irrigation suppliers. Save 30–50% on materials. Many DIYers accidentally launch real businesses this way.

Photograph plants you like around town. Build a visual library. Price them at wholesale. That's your real budget.